Virginia Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Fighting For Motorcycle Accident Victims in Woodbridge, Fairfax & Throughout Virginia

Motorcycle accidents can result in life-altering consequences, leaving victims with severe injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens. Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident is very complex, requiring a thorough understanding of Virginia’s personal injury laws and the unique challenges motorcyclists face on the road. 

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, the Law Office Of Andrew S. Kasmer can deliver the experienced legal representation you need to pursue the compensation you rightfully deserve. Our dedicated motorcycle accident lawyer in Fairfax can support you.

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident in Fairfax, VA?
Get the legal help you deserve! Contact us today at (571) 350-8562 for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.

Virginia Motorcycle Laws

Motorcycle laws are designed to ensure the safety of riders and others on the road. 

Here are some of the key motorcycle laws in Virginia:

• License Requirements: To legally ride a motorcycle, you need a Class M endorsement on your driver's license. You can get this endorsement by passing a skills test or completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course.
• Helmet Requirement: All motorcycle riders and passengers must wear a helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) safety standards.
• Eye Protection: Riders must wear eye protection unless their motorcycle has a windshield that provides adequate coverage.
• Motorcycle Operation Rules: Motorcyclists must ride within their lane and are prohibited from lane splitting (riding between lanes of traffic). If carrying a passenger, the motorcycle must have a proper passenger seat and footrests.
• Insurance and Registration: Motorcyclists must have liability insurance and properly register their motorcycle with the Virginia DMV. Motorcycles must pass a safety inspection for basic safety features.
• Motorcycle Safety Course: Virginia offers a safety course that can help riders obtain their license and avoid the road skills test. The course teaches safe riding techniques.
• Lane Splitting: Lane splitting, or riding between lanes of traffic, is illegal in Virginia. Motorcyclists must stay within their lane at all times.
• DUI/DWI for Motorcyclists: Motorcyclists are subject to the same DUI laws as car drivers, with a legal BAC limit of 0.08%. Violating this law can result in fines, license suspension, and jail time.
• Headlights: Motorcyclists must have their headlights on at all times, both during the day and night, for increased visibility.
• Passing Regulations: When passing other vehicles, motorcyclists must ensure it is safe and follow the same rules as other vehicles.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Common causes of motorcycle accidents may include:

• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Failure to yield
• Lane splitting
• Driving under the influence
• Poor road conditions

Injuries Commonly Sustained in Motorcycle Accidents

Common injuries may include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even when wearing a helmet, motorcyclists can suffer from TBIs, which can have long-lasting or permanent effects on cognitive function, memory, and behavior.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or full paralysis, significantly affecting a victim’s quality of life and capability to perform everyday tasks.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: The impact of a collision often results in broken bones, which can require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
• Road Rash: When a motorcyclist is thrown from their bike, they may skid across the pavement, leading to severe abrasions known as road rash. This injury can lead to serious infections and scarring.
• Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma from a motorcycle accident can cause internal injuries, like organ damage or internal bleeding, which could not be instantly obvious but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Potential Damages in a Motorcycle Accident Claim

Possible damages include:

• Medical Expenses: This often includes present and future medical costs that are related to the accident, like hospital bills, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any necessary long-term care.
• Lost Wages: If the injuries sustained in the accident prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income, both now and in the future if the injuries are disabling.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident can be substantial, particularly if the injuries are very severe or permanent.
• Property Damage: This covers the restoration or replacement of your motorcycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
• Loss of Consortium: In some cases, the spouse of the injured party could be qualified to compensation for the loss of companionship and support due to the accident.
• Punitive Damages: In instances where the at-fault party’s conduct was particularly reckless or egregious, the court may grant punitive damages to penalize the wrongdoer and prevent similar behavior in the future.

Motorcyclists Face Bias from Insurers

Insurers may exhibit bias against motorcyclists seeking compensation after an accident for several reasons. 

Here are a few ways this can manifest:

• Stereotypes About Motorcyclists: Insurers may assume riders are more reckless, leading to unfair blame and reduced compensation.

How a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Fairfax Can Help You

After a serious motorcycle accident, understanding your legal options is crucial, especially when dealing with medical bills and insurance companies. Our motorcycle accident attorney in Fairfax can provide support not only by clarifying your rights, but also by managing the entire process, allowing you to focus on recovery. Many injured motorcyclists are unsure where to begin—having professional legal guidance helps ensure that important deadlines are met and that no detail is overlooked when seeking compensation.

Some of the specific ways a motorcycle accident attorney in Fairfax can assist you include::

• Gathering Strong Evidence: Your Fairfax motorcycle accident lawyer can assist you by compiling police reports, photographs, medical records, and witness statements to support your claim.
• Managing Deadlines and Paperwork: Attorneys can make sure every filing meets Virginia’s legal requirements to protect your right to seek compensation.
• Negotiating with Insurers: Experienced motorcycle accident lawyers in Fairfax can stand up to insurance company tactics so you do not settle for less than you deserve.
• Representing You in Court: A lawyer can advocate for you before a judge or jury if settlement negotiations do not result in a fair outcome.

Whether your accident happened on the I-66, US-50, or on smaller roads, our experienced legal team can make your voice heard in each step of the process. The right support can make all the difference in your recovery after a motorcycle accident in Fairfax County.